Free · West Virginia · Current law
Based on West Virginia's official Income Shares formula. Enter both parents' incomes and get an estimate in under a minute.
Before taxes — wages, self-employment, bonuses
A best estimate is fine for now
Taxes, mandatory retirement, union dues…
Work or school related
Estimated monthly support
The other parent pays you, the parent with primary timesharing.
Estimate only — based on a simplified reading of West Virginia Monthly Basic Child Support Obligations, WV Code §48-13-301. A judge can deviate. Not legal advice.
Get a plain-English copy of this estimate, the numbers used, and a short checklist for what to review before relying on it.
West Virginia utilizes the Income Shares Support Formula to determine child support obligations. The process involves calculating the combined gross monthly income of both parents. This combined income, along with the number of children, is used to reference a state-provided table to ascertain a basic child support obligation. This basic amount is then proportionally allocated between the parents based on their respective contributions to the combined gross income. Further adjustments are applied for expenses such as health insurance premiums, extraordinary unreimbursed medical costs, and work-related childcare. The specific worksheet used (Worksheet A or B) depends on the parenting time arrangement.
A substantial change in either parent's income — voluntary or involuntary — can trigger a modification.
Changes in childcare costs or the children's health insurance premiums directly adjust the support amount.
If the custody schedule changes significantly, support can be recalculated under West Virginia guidelines.
Medical conditions, disabilities, or educational needs can justify a departure from the guideline amount.
Common questions
An uncontested divorce in West Virginia can finalize in 30-90 days. Contested divorces, however, can take significantly longer, typically ranging from 6 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the issues involved.
While it is possible to file for divorce without an attorney in West Virginia, especially for uncontested cases, it is highly recommended to consult with a lawyer. A lawyer can ensure all legal requirements are met, protect your rights, and help navigate complex issues like property division, alimony, and child custody.
Yes, West Virginia is both a no-fault and fault-based divorce state. You can file for a no-fault divorce based on irreconcilable differences or one year of voluntary separation. Fault-based grounds, such as adultery or cruel treatment, are also available. (W. Va. Code §§ 48-5-201, 48-5-202)
West Virginia follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. Courts begin with a presumption of equal division but may adjust based on factors like monetary and nonmonetary contributions, income-earning capacity sacrifices, and asset dissipation. (W. Va. Code § 48-7-101, § 48-7-103)
Yes, mediation is generally required in West Virginia for contested child custody cases (parenting plan disputes) unless specific exemptions apply, such as instances of domestic violence. Mediation aims to help parents reach agreements outside of court. (W. Va. Code § 48-9-202)
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